Housing starts jumped 15 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 872, 000 units in September, soaring to its fastest rate since 2008 , according to the Commerce Department. Economists polled had expected a rise to a 770, 000-unit rate, according to a Reuters poll.

Among earnings, Bank of America reported a breakeven quarter , exceeding expectations for a loss. But revenue was lighter than expected.

Pepsico posted higher-than-expected earnings , but revenue fell slightly short due to the stronger U.S. dollar.

But a batch of major tech companies limited gains.

Intel reported quarterly results that beat Wall Street's forecast but its outlook came in light as the personal computer industry wrestles with a shaky global economy and a shift by consumers toward tablets.

Which Candidate is Better For Stocks?

Discussing how investors should play momentum swings as the presidential election nears, with Chuck Gabriel, Capital Alpha Partners managing director.